A WREXHAM man has been named as the motorcyclist who died after a collision in Gwynedd.

Heartfelt tributes have been paid to Michael Stephen Williams - known as Steve to his friends - who died aged 57 after a crash on the A494 in Llanfor, Bala on Monday.

In a statement released by North Wales Police, Mr Williams' family said they were "heartbroken" to lose a "beloved dad; a lifelong friend 'Ces', a man so many people loved and our ultimate hero".

The statement added: "An avid sports fan, who we would love to watch football, golf and darts with – we even forgave him for being a Chelsea fan.

"If he wasn’t busy in his garage working on his next bike project, he would be helping myself, my husband and my brother with dog-sitting, taxiing or DIY. He could also be found enjoying drinks with friends; favouring a G&T after his recent health kick.

“When he had a well-earned day off, for decades he has adored riding many a motorbike throughout North Wales with friends and his soulmate; with the Ponderosa being one of their favourite spots.

The statement added: “His friends and family will remember his bad dancing, good taste in music, love of good food (sometimes bad) and him being one of the most helpful and hardworking people you will ever meet.

“We will be celebrating a wonderful life on Wednesday, May 23 at Pentrebychan Crematorium from 1.30pm and welcome all that knew him to join us.

“Our heartfelt thanks to all that have helped us and Dad during this difficult time.”

The family have requested that their privacy is respected.

Police continue to appeal for witnesses to the collision which happened at 3.09pm and involved a motorcycle and a car.

Sgt Nicola Grimes-Williams said: “We are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen the motorcyclist riding along the road prior to the collision and are appealing to any drivers who may have dashcam footage to come forward.”

Anyone with any information is urged to contact officers at the Roads Policing Unit on 101 quoting reference W059333.

Alternatively contact the North Wales Police control room live web chat on www.north-wales.police.uk/contact/chat-support.aspx.